The Minnesota Timberwolves (43-27) are struggling with only three weeks remaining in the regular season, two games behind the Los Angeles Lakers for third place in the West and one game behind the Denver Nuggets for sixth place. This group has advanced to the conference finals from both those positions, so seeding may not be necessary. Still, home-court advantage in the first round could be a welcome boost. But will the squad be healthy enough to accomplish this?
Anthony Edwards is dealing with knee inflammation and could miss a few weeks, leaving a larger offensive burden on the shoulders of Julius Randle. Minnesota is deep enough to handle the absence of its franchise cornerstone for a limited amount of time, but another key player is also dealing with injury. Nazi Reed missed Wednesday's 147-111 win over the Utah Jazz with a right ankle sprain and could be out again in Friday's home game against the Portland Trail Blazers (34-36).
The former Sixth Man of the Year (could also win the award this season) is averaging 13.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks per contest, while shooting 46.9 percent from the field and 37.3 percent from 3-point land. Already without Edwards, the Timberwolves' offense will be stretched thin if Reed is stuck on the bench. Ergo, the 26-year-old forward's status for the Blazers clash is of great interest to the fan base.
Naz Reid's status for the Timberwolves-Blazers game
According to the NBA's latest injury report, Reed is listed as questionable. If he is sidelined, Minnesota will likely rely on Randle, Jaden McDaniels and Donte DiVincenzo to provide adequate offense. Portland has certainly been able to take advantage of Wolves' misfortune.
The Blazers are battling the Los Angeles Clippers and Golden State Warriors for the eighth spot. Earning extra lives is obviously important in the NBA Play-In Tournament, so fans should expect this team to enter Goal Center with obvious intensity. However, Portland itself is shorthanded.
Shadon Sharp has been out since the beginning of February after suffering a stress reaction in his left fibula. The Trail Blazers can hold their own without an explosive guard, and the Timberwolves believe they can do the same without Anthony Edwards, at least in this game. However, an inactive Naz Reed could stand in the way of their victory.
Timberwolves fans are hoping they get some good news before the action tips off at 8 pm ET.
